Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf of Kano State has openly criticized the state Commissioner of Police, Ibrahim Adamu Bakori, accusing him of partisanship following the police command’s withdrawal from the Independence Day anniversary parade held in Kano on Wednesday.
Speaking during the ceremony, the governor described the action as a slight to the people of Kano and a violation of the spirit of national unity.
“Security agencies in Kano should not involve themselves in partisan politics, which will do no good to us as a people or to Nigeria. As the Chief Security Officer of Kano State, I strongly condemn the unethical and partisan attitude of the current Commissioner of Police,” Yusuf declared.
The governor noted that the commissioner’s absence, alongside his officers, was a deliberate move that embarrassed the state during a symbolic national celebration.
“On this historic day, the Commissioner of Police decided to pull out of the parade with his personnel. This is unacceptable to the government and people of Kano,” he said.
Governor Yusuf emphasized that Kano remains a peaceful state, adding that residents had eagerly awaited the independence celebration as a demonstration of unity.
“The good people of Kano are peace-loving. They looked forward to gathering here to celebrate Nigeria’s independence. Yet, at the last minute, the police command withdrew in what can only be described as a politically motivated decision,” he added.
He further argued that such conduct undermines the Nigerian Constitution, which recognizes the governor as the Chief Security Officer of the state, insisting that the commissioner’s actions were disloyal to the country.
“This is unethical and disloyal to the Federal Republic of Nigeria. Even I had to use my own pilot car to go around. That should not happen,” he lamented.
Governor Yusuf, however, thanked other security agencies for their presence and participation in the parade, assuring them of his administration’s continued support in maintaining peace and unity across Kano.
When contacted by reporters, the Commissioner of Police, Ibrahim Adamu Bakori, responded briefly:
“I am on a condolence visit. I will call you back later.”
